Airborne 08.18.17

Aircraft To Be Flown For VIP/Corporate Transport

An additional preliminary order for one AW169 light intermediate twin-engine helicopter and a contract for one AW139 intermediate twin engine helicopter for VIP/corporate missions have been placed by Kaan Air, based in Istanbul, Turkey. The contracts follow the one signed by the customer just two months ago for two AW169s and one AW139. AgustaWestland sees significant future prospects for the AW139 and AW169, as well as its other commercial products in Turkey, where there is strong market demand.

AgustaWestland claims more than 60% market share of the turbine commercial helicopter market in recent years, achieved with a significant contribution from the distributor Kaan Air. Currently there are three AW139s operating in Turkey where the aircraft's high performance, cabin size and modern safety features are recognised as key advantages over the competition. A fourth AW139 will be delivered to a VIP customer soon.

With three aircraft already in flight test with over 100 flight hours accomplished and a fourth prototype scheduled to join the program in early 2013, the AW169 is on schedule to achieve civil certification in 2014 with deliveries beginning in 2015.

The AW169 cabin can accommodate up to 10 passengers or up to seven passengers in VIP configuration. It is powered by two 1000 shp class PW210A turboshaft engines enabling the aircraft to cruise at more than 140 knots and provide vertical Cat.A/Class 1 capability as maximum all up weight, even in hot conditions. The AW169 is being certified in accordance with EASA CS-29 / FAR Part 29 latest Amendments and will be the only helicopter in its class to meet the very latest safety standards.

More than 70 AW169 helicopters have now been ordered for a wide range of missions including, air ambulance, law enforcement, corporate transport, utility and offshore transport.

There are more than 500 AW139 aircraft currently in service performing many roles including EMS/SAR, offshore transport, VIP/corporate transport, law enforcement and military transport.